Tips:
When you are reserved you reserve, or restrain, your emotions. Describing someone as reserved can be either positive or negative. A person can be appropriately dignified, and thereby reserved, or someone can be reserved in a negative--aloof and unsociable-- manner.

Usage Examples:

Although I wanted to jump for joy upon receiving the award, I remained reserved and delivered a dignified speech. (restrained, dignified)

Lois seemed more reserved than usual, and I wondered if she was angry with me for some reason. (aloof, formal)

The people of certain countries tend to be more socially reserved than Americans. (restrained, discreet)

Amanda has no inhibitions and is never reserved when telling personal stories. (restrained, discreet)

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